Feyenoord’s victory over PEC Zwolle (2-1), in the Eredivisie, was marked by a controversial move. At 71′, Maikel van der Werff touched the ball with his hand and moved it away from Bryan Linssen, who was isolated in front of the opposing goalkeeper.
The Zwolle defender ended up seeing the yellow card, in a decision and Martin van den Kerkhof that generated controversy, namely from those responsible for Feyenoord who asked for a heavier punishment. And in order to calm things down, the Dutch judge had an unusual attitude and went to the quick interview area to explain the situation.
“I know there are a lot of people who think it was a red card, but I couldn’t give it because there was no certainty that Linssen would be in possession of the ball. If that happened, then yes, it was a clear goal opportunity and the punishment had to be different. From my angle I have serious doubts that he would keep the ball, so I opted for yellow. I have already reviewed the images and I am sure of my decision”, he said.
Asked about the VAR intervention, van den Kerkhof was peremptory.
“I was well positioned and I communicated this to VAR. He should only contact me if it’s a clear mistake and I don’t think that was the case”, she concluded.
Yellow or red? †
Martin van den Kerkhof about the much-discussed handball at #PECFEY ??? pic.twitter.com/OXQFfg485s— ESPN NL (@ESPNnl) March 13, 2022
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